The Basic Steps for explore in Texas

You explore for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) through Social Security itself, not through the state of Texas. The process is the same whether you live in Texas or anywhere else in the country. You can start your process online at ssa.gov, by phone at 1-800-772-1213, or by visiting a Social Security office in person.

Texas has 47 Social Security field offices where you can walk in and speak to someone face-to-face. These offices are in cities including Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Fort Worth, as well as smaller towns. If you prefer to explore by phone or online, you do not need to visit an office at all — many people complete the entire process without ever going in.

The process itself asks for your medical records, work history, and personal information. Social Security then sends your case to the Disability information Services (DDS) office in Texas, which is a state agency that works with Social Security to review medical evidence and make the initial decision on your claim.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore directly to Social Security through ssa.gov, by calling 1-800-772-1213, or at any of the 47 Social Security offices in Texas.
  • Social Security sends your case to Texas Disability information Services, which reviews your medical records and makes the initial decision.
  • You will need medical records from your doctors, a list of your work history, and proof of your age and citizenship or legal residency.
  • The initial decision typically takes three to six months in Texas, though some cases take longer if more medical evidence is needed.
  • If Social Security denies your claim, you can request reconsideration or file an appeal, and many people are approved on appeal.

What Documents You Need Before You Start

Gather these documents before you begin your process. You will need your Social Security number, birth certificate, and proof of citizenship or legal residency (a passport, green card, or visa). You will also need your most recent tax return or W-2 form to show your work history and earnings.

The most important part of your process is medical evidence. Collect the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all the doctors, hospitals, and mental health providers who have treated you for the condition that keeps you from working. Include dates of your visits and the names of any medications you take. If you have recent test results, imaging reports, or hospital discharge papers, gather those too.

You do not need to submit all of these documents at once. Social Security can request them from your doctors directly, but the process moves faster if you provide them yourself. If you do not have a doctor or cannot afford one, tell Social Security during your process — they may be able to refer you to a free or low-cost clinic.

explore Online Through ssa.gov

The fastest way to start is online at ssa.gov. Go to the Social Security website, find the "explore for Disability" section, and select "Disability Insurance Benefits (SSDI)." You will create a my Social Security account if you do not already have one, then answer questions about your medical condition, work history, and personal background.

The online form takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete. You do not have to finish it all at once — you can save your progress and come back later. Once you submit it, Social Security sends you a confirmation number. Write this down or save it, because you will need it to check on your case later.

After you submit online, Social Security may call you to ask follow-up questions or request additional information. They will use the phone number you provided in your process, so make sure it is correct and that you answer calls from unknown numbers during business hours.

explore by Phone or In Person

If you prefer to talk to someone, call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213. You can speak to a representative Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time. Have your documents ready when you call, but you do not need to have everything memorized — the representative will walk you through each question.

You can also visit a Social Security office in Texas in person. Find the office nearest you at ssa.gov by entering your zip code. Walk-in hours vary by location, but most offices are open Monday through Friday. Some offices accept appointments, which can reduce your wait time. Bring your documents with you, or at least bring a list of your doctors' names and contact information.

explore in person takes longer than online or by phone — you may wait 30 minutes to an hour — but some people find it easier to explain their situation face-to-face, and the representative can answer questions right away.

What Happens After You Submit Your process

Once Social Security receives your process, they send it to the Texas Disability information Services office in Austin. This office reviews your medical records and decides whether your condition meets Social Security's definition of disability. In Texas, this review typically takes three to six months, though complex cases can take longer.

During this time, Social Security may request additional medical records from your doctors. They may also ask you to attend a medical exam paid for by Social Security. This is not a test you can pass or fail — it is straightforward a way for Social Security to gather current medical information about your condition.

You will receive a letter in the mail telling you whether Social Security approved or denied your claim. If approved, the letter explains when your benefits start and how much you will receive each month. If denied, the letter explains why and tells you how to appeal.

Understanding the Timeline in Texas

The time from process to decision varies. Some cases are decided in two months; others take six months or longer. Cases that require more medical evidence, or where your doctors do not respond quickly to Social Security's requests, take longer. Cases where you have recent, clear medical records move faster.

You can check the status of your process anytime by logging into your my Social Security account at ssa.gov or by calling 1-800-772-1213. Have your confirmation number ready when you call. Social Security will tell you whether they are still reviewing your case or whether a decision has been made.

If you have not heard anything after six months, call Social Security to ask about the delay. Sometimes medical records get lost in the mail, or a doctor's office does not respond to a request. A phone call can often speed things up.

What to Do If Your Claim Is Denied

If Social Security denies your claim, you have the right to appeal. You do not have to accept the decision. Many people are approved on appeal, especially if they provide additional medical evidence that was not available during the first review.

You have 60 days from the date on the denial letter to request reconsideration. This is the first level of appeal. Social Security sends your case to a different reviewer at Texas Disability information Services, who looks at all the evidence again, plus any new medical records you provide.

If reconsideration is also denied, you can request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. This is a more formal process where you can present your case in front of a judge, and many people win at this stage. You can represent yourself or hire a lawyer to help you. Some lawyers who handle SSDI cases work on contingency, meaning they only get paid if you win.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for SSDI if I am not a U.S. citizen?

You must be a U.S. citizen or have legal residency status to receive SSDI. If you have a green card or valid visa, you can explore. Bring proof of your immigration status when you explore — a green card, visa, or I-94 form. If you are not sure whether you may have access to, ask Social Security directly when you call or visit an office.

Do I have to be out of work to explore?

You do not have to be completely out of work, but your earnings must be below a certain amount. In 2024, if you earn more than $1,550 per month, Social Security may not consider you disabled. If you are working part-time or earning very little, you can still explore. Tell Social Security about your current work and income when you explore.

How much will I receive each month if I am approved?

Your monthly benefit amount depends on your work history and earnings record. Social Security calculates it based on how much you paid into the system through payroll taxes over your working years. The average SSDI benefit in 2024 is around $1,500 per month, but amounts vary widely. You can see your estimated benefit amount by creating a my Social Security account at ssa.gov.

What if I cannot afford a doctor to get medical records?

Tell Social Security during your process that you do not have a treating doctor. They may refer you to a free or low-cost clinic in your area, or they can request records from any doctor you have seen in the past. If you have been to an emergency room or hospital, those records count too. Social Security can also pay for a consultative exam if they need current medical evidence.

Can I work while waiting for a decision?

Yes. You can work and earn money while Social Security reviews your case. However, if you earn more than $1,550 per month, Social Security may decide you are not disabled. Be honest about your current work and income when you explore. If you are approved, there are work incentives that let you earn some money without losing your benefits.